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Project Noah Nature School
Photobacterium leiognathi
The bioluminescent microbes responsible for such phenomena require specific conditions and high concentrations to achieve this effect, but it is similar to the algae blooms that cause red tide. There are many varieties of bacterium that can emit light, and some of them have developed symbiotic relationships with animals. Photobacterium leiognathi is one such species.
This luminescent marine bacterium lives in warm tropical waters. Unlike other species, that can multiply in colder, deeper waters P. leiognathi grows at an optimal temperature of about 30 degrees Celsius.
Spotted on May 25, 2012
Submitted on May 25, 2012
8 Comments
Really nice! I have seen them while diving in night dives and at the beach in Hawaii..is such a nice thing to see!
Spectacular! This is something I'd definateley like to see before I die.
I love when these are on the shore; I use to see plenty when I was young and they seem to be a bit more rare now. The light effect on water and context is superb. Lovely series Mária =)
Wow i agree awesome spot and photo :):)
Wow. I've never seen it so brilliant. A great first spotting. Welcome to Project Noah! Might I suggest that you simply give the common name as "bioluminescent bacteria" or similar rather than repeat the Scientific name? Cheers
Did you really take this photo?? Fascinating! I've read about this before! =D
Wow, incredible! Great job getting that shot, too. Thanks!
WOW! This is such an amazing photo! Thank you for sharing it. :)